Solar panels are solar-powered devices made up of photovoltaic, or PV, cells. Silicon wafers coated with boron and phosphorous solutions on opposite sides comprise PV cells. Poly-crystalline, mono-crystalline and amorphous panels are the three most widely used types of solar panels on the market. Although these different types of solar panels come with different price tags, all do an efficient job of providing useable electricity for the consumer.
Flat plate collection systems are designed to provide heated water supplies to the consumer. These systems effectively heat water supplies without employing any fossil fuels whatsoever. A system of tubing filled with water or oil gets heated in the presence of sunlight in a flat plate collector. Flat plate collector systems are customizable and can be specially designed to meet any consumer's water heating needs.
While the initial purchase cost of a solar cell device may be high, the eventual savings gained from energy independence can offset the initial purchase over time. In general, solar panel and flat plate collector systems pay for themselves after 10 years or so of energy independence. Poly-crystalline panels are the most affordable type of solar panel while mono-crystalline panels are a higher-end solar panel.
State and local governments across America offer incentive programs for homeowners who employ solar devices. In many cases, these incentives can cover a considerable percentage of the initial purchase costs associated with solar devices. For example, residents of Wyoming who install solar panel or flat plate collector systems on their property are eligible for up to $3,000 worth of state assistance, as of 2011.